By Jefferson Diaz
The Truth Reporter
With a high sense of camaraderie and honor the Masons of Amazon Lodge No. 4 held the first annual Charles D. Allen banquet for Past Master at the Delta Hotel in Glendale.
Led by Brother and Master of Ceremonies, James Gregory Hopkins, the Masons of Amazon Lodge No. 4 paid tribute to the Past Masters of their organization who left their mark on Prince Hall Freemasonry in Toledo.
“It’s an honor to have the presence of brothers from other lodges in Toledo to pay tribute to the members of the Amazon Lodge,” Hopkins said before introducing the evening’s keynote speaker: Brother Maurio Powell, Past Master of Eureka Lodge #52 in Cleveland.
“The Amazon Lodge should be proud of its history as a fundamental part of the fight for civil rights in our state (Ohio) and the country,” said Powell, who gave an hour-long lecture on the history of the Amazon Lodge and Prince Hall Freemasonry in Toledo.
A dozen brothers were recognized as Past Masters and presented with a pin and apron representing their position within Toledo Freemasonry.
From the Worshipful Master of the Amazon Lodge, Lugalabamu M. Mugashe, they received the honors and thanked their families and friends present.
“I wouldn’t be the Mason and the man I am today if it weren’t for these Past Masters who have guided us with their knowledge and experience,” Mugashe said.
To conclude the evening, Robert M. Estelle Jr., the Most Worshipful Grand Master of MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, offered a few words of thanks to the Amazon Lodge for its invitation, emphasizing that “I always enjoy coming to Toledo.”
“We are living in complex times, but the important thing is to remain united and work on our Masonic values and honor God,” Estelle said.
Amazon Lodge No. 4 was chartered on June 14, 1864, making it one of the oldest Prince Hall lodges in Ohio.